November 28, 2005: Russia is spending money, once more, on new weapons, and repairing older equipment as well. In 2006, Russia will spend about six billion dollars on new military equipment, or rebuilding older stuff, for the army. After over a decade of few domestic orders, Russian arms companies are now getting business from the Russian armed forces. Not a lot, but it's a start. Many Russian defense firms have gone out of business, and those that are left are operating at about 30 percent capacity, nearly all the business coming from export orders.
In 2006, the army is getting 31 new T-90 tanks, and 125 BMP infantry fighting vehicles. This is enough to equip a tank battalion, and four infantry battalions. In addition, another 139 tanks, 125 self-propelled artillery, 104 aircraft and 52 helicopters will be refurbished and upgraded. More money will be spent on vehicle maintenance (most trucks are Cold War vintage) and 3,770 trucks will be bought. All of this is a 70 percent increase from what was spent in 2005. The air force, navy and space forces are also getting more money next year.
